North West Teachers Report Surge in Child Abuse and Neglect Cases
NSPCC survey reveals alarming 95% increase in safeguarding referrals
Teachers across the North West say they are seeing a surge in the number of children in their classrooms being referred to social services.
A joint UK-wide survey by the NSPCC and the teaching union NASUWT has uncovered an increase in child abuse and neglect cases in the North West.
The survey involved 8,329 teachers, with 1,400 teachers from the North West participating.
95% of respondents from the region reported an increase in safeguarding referrals within their school over the past year, and 61% of them stated that the increase was 'significant'.
The types of referrals that teachers in the region have seen an increase in over the past year include:
- 86% have seen an increase in emotional abuse referrals
- 90% have seen an increase in neglect referrals
- 71% have seen an increase in physical abuse referrals
- 58% of teachers have seen an increase in sexual abuse referrals
Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC CEO, said: "The vital role that teachers play in keeping children and young people safe cannot be underestimated.
"They are in a prime position to spot concerns, and, in many cases, they are the trusted adults that children turn to when something worrying, or upsetting has happened to them.
“We know that the pandemic left many children at an increased risk of abuse and neglect and since children returned to school, teachers have been key in raising their hand and reporting concerns to ensure they can get the support they need.
“Whilst we recognise that teachers are an essential part of the jigsaw in protecting children, at the NSPCC, we believe everyone can play their part."
The NSPCC urges anyone with concerns about a child, even if they're unsure, to contact the NSPCC Helpline to speak to one of the charity's professionals. People can call 0808 800 5000, email help@nspcc.org.uk, or fill in the online form.